Flag
Iris species · Iridaceae
How it looks
The Iris (Flag) is a plant whose narrow, long, sword-shaped leaves grow in clumps, producing a distinctively shaped flower with three large petals drooping downward and three standing upright. Purple, yellow, white, and blue are common; height 12-31 in (30-80 cm).
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of Flag (especially the bulb) contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble on Flag rarely leads to serious trouble, but the iridals and alkaloids it contains irritate the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild digestive upset. Make a habit of picking up fallen leaves and broken stems the same day, and keep the pot out of your cat's reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite drops noticeably, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Iris species
- Common name
- Flag
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the bulbs)
- Compounds
- Iridals, Alkaloids
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Iridaceae
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